Are you diving or swimming with a mustache? If so, the top rated full face snorkel mask is the right choice for you. Unlike traditional masks, a full face design provides a guaranteed seal underwater. This mask also makes it easier for beginners to breathe while enjoying a wider view under the sea.
Kids and adults alike will benefit a lot from the use of full face snorkel masks. It’s a top choice for those who have respiratory problems and people with bigger than usual noses.
Below, I reviewed five of the full face snorkel masks I swear by. See which one suits you well.
SNORKEL MASK | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick! WildHorn Outfitters FLOWTECH Full Face Mask | Check Price | ||
DRY FREAK Full Face Snorkel Mask | Check Price | ||
ME Martian Elite Full Face Snorkel Mask | Check Price | ||
MIDRY Pro Full Face Snorkel Mask | Check Price | ||
Deep Sea O2 Full Face Snorkel Mask | Check Price |
Full Face vs. Traditional Snorkel Masks
To be fair, both full face and traditional snorkel masks have their pros and cons.
First of all, traditional snorkel masks are cheaper, and it’s easy to come by. You can easily purchase one for a very low cost. It fits most people, but it would be challenging if you have a larger than usual nose.
With enough practice, it would be easy to seal and neutralize a traditional snorkel mask. However, those with facial hair, respiratory problems, or slim face, may find it tricky to do so.
Fret not because these are the problems that full face snorkel masks solve. Instead of having to deal with water leaks, a full face mask creates a tight seal around your face. This removes the guesswork of having to neutralize your gear all the time.
However, you should use full face snorkel masks carefully. Some localities in Hawaii ban the use of this mask because it’s harder to remove than the traditional one. For the sake of emergencies, I suggest practicing how to remove the mask fast while underwater.
Top Rated Full Face Snorkel Mask – Top 5 Picks!
#1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: WildHorn Outfitters FLOWTECH Full Face Mask
Product Name: WildHorn Outfitters FLOWTECH Full Face Mask
Product Description: If you’re looking for a top rated full face snorkel mask, you should consider the WildHorn Outfitters FLOWTECH. This sports the advanced FLOWTECH intake system that lets you breathe through your mouth or nose naturally. It has four intake valves and two chambers for efficient airflow as you snorkel. With this full face mask, snorkelers will enjoy up to 50% easier breathing with very safe levels of CO2. Moreover, this has a 180-degree view for you to see the underwater features clearly. It even comes with a camera mount for added convenience.Aside from that, this has an auto drain feature and a fully adjustable fit. The lens is also fog-resistant so that you can snorkel without the hassle. This will also give you peace of mind with its anti-leak silicone edges that will keep the seal tight all throughout your snorkeling trip.
- Visibility
- Fit
- Easy Breathing
- Value for Money
Overall
Summary
The WildHorn Outfitters Full Face Mask has a patent-pending arched tube design that gives you full freedom of movement. Just avoid using this for freediving as this mask will not equalize. It’s reserved for shallow swimming and snorkeling purposes only.
Overall, this is a safe full face mask, and I really like the wider view angle. You can easily see underwater features in your peripheral vision. It’s also very comfortable as long as you get the right size. You can also choose from six different colors as a bonus.
Pros
Patent-pending arched tube
FLOWTECH air system
50% easier breathing
Cons
Not for deep diving because it will not equalize properly
Runners-up: DRY FREAK Full Face Snorkel Mask
Another full face snorkel mask I swear by is the one from DRY FREAK. This has a Secure Lock Snorkel feature that prevents the tube from detaching from the mask. It also has hypoallergenic silicone lining to prevent leaks while on the water. Aside from that, this full face mask comes with an optional GoPro mount.
Meanwhile, the lens of this full face mask has a patented design with an anti-fogging treatment. It keeps the view clear, so you’ll enjoy the underwater sceneries without the hassle.
Moreover, this has the Fresh Air Flow Technology with a 180-degree panoramic view. The lens is also shatterproof to keep your eyes and face protected even on strong currents.
The DRY FREAK full face mask also comes with an anatomic design. It’s available in four sizes to suit the age and facial shape of the user. This mask will also solve sealing problems for those with mustaches or goatees.
This Tribord mask is perfect for snorkeling in caves and shallow waters. However, it’s not the best pick if you’re planning to submerge further, as the full face design will affect your buoyancy.
Also, this snorkel mask makes it easier to breathe. However, the package says it comes with an extra ring, but mine didn’t. I think it’s just a minor issue since the mask worked well when I tried it out.
ME Martian Elite Full Face Snorkel Mask
The ME Martian Elite is a Tribord mask that boasts an easy-breathe design. It also has a 180-degree view with a panoramic vision for the best snorkeling experience.
Aside from that, the mask has an anti-leak silicone lining and anti-fog coating. You can also choose between two mask sizes to suit your face. Rest assured that this full face snorkel mask will provide a watertight seal the entire time.
Moreover, this has a Dry Top system that blocks water from getting into your snorkel. It’s also fitted with large straps to keep the mask in place. You can adjust the strap accordingly to achieve the right fit for your face.
The ME Martian Elite is also bundled with a pair of earplugs. This ensures that your snorkeling experience will be comfortable. You can also choose between four colors: bluish green, blue, vert turquoise, and rose fraise.
Just note that this full face mask isn’t suitable for kids under 10 and those who are planning to free dive or swim vigorously. I also suggest practicing wearing the mask on a pool before you go on an actual snorkeling trip. If you have asthma or COPD, you should know how to remove this mask right away.
MIDRY Pro Full Face Snorkel Mask
If you want to breathe easily, you should consider getting the MIDRY Pro Full Face Snorkel Mask. This is an excellent starter pack that includes a full face mask, anti-fog spray, and a bag. You will also receive an e-book about the top 10 best snorkeling spots in the world.
As for the mask itself, it has a 180-degree field of view for the best snorkeling experience. It also has a breathe-easy design with a vertical spot that allows excellent airflow.
Aside from that, the MIDRY snorkel mask has the anti-leak tech to ensure that you won’t have to re-seal it while on the water. It also remains comfortable, thanks to its wide and adjustable straps.
With this mask on, you can breathe both on your nose and mouth quite easily. The mask is also paired with a GoPro mount, so you no longer have to purchase it separately.
If you’re new to a full face mask, make sure that you practice wearing the MIDRY model before going to the sea. Take note that the viewing panel is curved, which could have a mild distortion on the surroundings. Still, it has excellent visibility and comfort.
Deep Sea O2 Full Face Snorkel Mask
If you’re on a budget, one of the best deals to get is the Deep Sea O2 Full Face Snorkel Mask. This has a patented breathing system that lets you breathe oxygen while removing carbon dioxide.
Take note that this is a one-size-fits-all mask, so those with larger than normal faces should consider the four other options on this list. But overall, this mask is suitable for users ages 8 and up.
One thing I really like about this mask is its snorkel tube. It’s angled away from the face, so it will not block your view. The tube also bears the Dry Top technology to keep water from entering your mask.
Aside from that, this mask has a GoPro mount and attached earplugs to keep the water out. There’s also a water drain in case leaks happen while you’re trying to seal the mask.
For the best snorkeling experience, this mask has an ultrawide 180-degree view. I also like the soft nosepiece that prevents pressure on the face, especially during mild to moderate currents. You can also squeeze the nosepiece to equalize the mask when you’re diving below the surface.
How to Choose the Right Full Face Snorkel Mask
To find the right full face mask for you, it’s important to consider the following points:
✔️Size
The very first thing you should check is the size of the full face mask. Just like traditional options, these versions are available in a wide variety of sizes. You have to ensure that the mask will fit your face properly, so it won’t leak or cause too much pressure on your skin.
Most of the time, brands categorize the mask’s size based on age. You can also take actual measurements, especially if you have larger facial features.
✔️Unobstructed view
It’s important that the snorkel mask has an unobstructed and clear view. This will let you see the underwater features without the hassle.
For full face masks, the rule of thumb is a 180-degree view. This will let you maximize your peripheral vision, unlike when using traditional snorkel masks.
Take note that full face masks with a curved design tend to have a slight distortion. Still, it shouldn’t affect your overall snorkeling experience.
✔️Air tube and seal
The air tube regulates the oxygen and carbon dioxide that gets into the mask. Make sure that it’s designed to remove CO2 while letting oxygen in. This will give you a ‘breathe easy’ effect, even during extended periods of snorkeling. Make sure that it’s angled away from the face, so your view won’t be disrupted as you snorkel around.
Aside from that, the mask should have silicone lining that will act as the sealing agent while on water. Unlike rubber, silicone is hypoallergenic and lasts longer even if used on saltwater repeatedly.
✔️Anti-fog coating
It’s important that the snorkel mask you’re going to buy has an anti-fog coating. This will prevent condensation from building up and blocking your view. For beginners, this is very important as a fogging mask can easily lead to panicking.
An anti-fog coating will save you from buying a separate anti-fog spray. This will make your mask ready to use straight from the package.
✔️Adjustable straps
Next, check the straps of the mask. Most of the time, full face masks use thick fabric straps to keep them in place around your face. Make sure that it’s adjustable so you can achieve the fit that you find comfortable.
Take note that full face masks have straps that can be tricky to remove. This is why you should always practice in the pool before snorkeling in the ocean.
✔️Extra features
Lastly, look for added features that will put more value on your purchase. Some of these are camera mounts, earplugs, and anti-fog spray. While it’s not always necessary, having it at your disposal is added convenience.
Final Words
A top rated full face snorkel mask will let you enjoy the underwater sceneries without water leaks or limited view. Just make sure that you get one with the right size, features, and safety to suit your needs. What do you think of these full face masks? Share your choice with us in the comment section below!